Sen. Brewster Offers Free Student Aid Seminars

McKeesport, February 13, 2012 – State Sen. Jim Brewster today said there are still available slots for his remaining two student aid seminars for local students and their parents.

“In this difficult economy, students and parents should explore every possible grant and loan opportunity,” Brewster said. “These free seminars are aimed at helping families understand what’s out there, what they may qualify for and how to apply.” » Continue Reading

Brewster Says Gas Drilling Bill Comes up Short

HARRISBURG, Feb. 10, 2012 — State Sen. Jim Brewster today said he voted against the recently approved gas drilling legislation because it fails to raise enough revenue and stifles local community zoning and input.

Following final legislative approval yesterday, the bill (House Bill 1950) is now in Gov. Tom Corbett’s hands for enactment.

“I favor the gas drilling industry and the many good jobs it will create,” Brewster said. “But this legislation doesn’t require the industry to pay its fair share of the tax burden, muzzles local input, and doesn’t take steps to help Pennsylvania workers obtain jobs in the industry.

» Continue Reading

Brewster: No Need to Pay for Rebate Filing Help

PITTSBURGH, February 9, 2012 – State Senator Jim Brewster today reminded people eligible for the state Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program that he and his local office staff stand ready to assist people for free.

Brewster said some companies are charging seniors up to $50 to help them file for the Lottery-funded property tax/rent rebate program.

“While it’s not illegal to charge people to help them apply for a rebate, I want to remind seniors and others that there is no need to pay for such a service because my office and other state government entities stand ready to provide that help for free,” Brewster said. » Continue Reading

Brewster: Corbett Budget Hurts Schools and Families

HARRISBURG, Feb. 9, 2012 — State Sen. Jim Brewster today issued the following statement on Gov. Tom Corbett’s 2012-13 state budget proposal:

“The tragedy of this budget is that the governor could have brought in more revenue without raising taxes,” Brewster said. “Instead, struggling families are being called on to dig deeper in their pockets.

There is no shortage of pain. The Corbett budget would cut $400 million in educational line items, $15 million from job training programs; and $6 million from state veterans’ homes.

The governor also seems determined to again put off badly needed construction work on our crumbling roads, bridges and transit systems. I find it alarming that Pennsylvania built more bridges in 1930 than in the past three years combined. » Continue Reading

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